Murals/Community Projects
I was selected by The RAW Project to be one of several artists creating murals for students at Jose de Diego Middle School in Miami's fabulous art district, Wynwood. I donated my time and talent for this mural, which was executed during Art Basel-Miami. My recent work has incorporated excerpts from relevant books, and this mural is built on William Golding's Lord of the Flies, which I thought might to be relevant to students in this age group. My hope was that they will be interested not only in my art, but in reading the book.
We had a great time!
ABOUT RAW PROJECT
In the US, six million students receive no arts education, and 60 percent of American schools have seen their arts programs defunded. RAW began in 2014 and brought together a coalition of non-profits, organizations, artists, and administrators to bring color and inspiration to the concrete walls of Wynwood's Jose De Diego middle school. More than 80 artists came together, and the results were magnificent enough to increase school enrollment among the community. More kids were coming back to school, and class attendance increased. There was an increase in test scores, school pride, and a decrease in bullying and violence. RAW caused a shockwave of enthusiasm through Miami, proving that art can improve the school and its student body. In 2016, RAW expanded to support the creation of arts programs at schools nationwide.
Alternative Frame (Lord of the Flies)
The artist at work.
Reframing the Frame (Lord of the Flies), Mixed Media on Board, 24” x 24”, 2019
Introducing kids to art was an important part of the project.
Reframing the Frame Close-up (Lord of the Flies)
And we worked hard.
We also talked about art.
The kids were great.
A student hard at work.
Many students worked hard.
Reframing the Frame Close-up (Lord of the Flies)